The history of Europe over the last centuries can be seen as the history of the Ottoman Empire and a few annoying, small nations that thwarted Ottoman ambitions. Ottoman power is unmatched in its extent and grandeur, straddling the traditional trade route between Europe and Asia. The Ottomans also have power over the whole of the Mediterranean coast of North Africa.

This Turkish, Islamic empire supplanted the Orthodox Byzantine Empire in the 15th Century and since then it has had a continuing, if not always whole-hearted, ambition to expand further westwards into the heart of Europe. In living memory, Turkish armies have reached the gates of Vienna, Austria, only to be turned back by the steadfast defenders. Turkish expansionism has always been a part of palace politics: when a Sultan has felt secure at home he has attacked Europe; when a Sultan has felt threatened by his Janissary military commanders, he has sent them to attack.

The Ottomans face challenges but within these are great opportunities. The army and navy look old fashioned compared to those of some states, but the soldiers of the Sultan are numerous indeed. Strategically, the Empire is in a potentially strong position: the Balkans are a natural bastion to defend Istanbul, and a possible springboard for conquest into central Europe. There may even be valuable allies to be found among Austria’s rivals: the authority of the Pope to stop his European flock making treaties with infidels is all but gone. Control of the Mediterranean would allow a Sultan to do as he pleases with the smaller European powers. And to the east, the route to India offers the chance of riches.

Facebook Comments

Popular units 受歡迎兵種

No.

Card兵種

Name名稱

Class兵種

Cost招募費

Unkeep維持費

1

160

Nizam-I Cedit Infantry(nizam_I_cedit_infantry)Line InfantryThese troops of the “new model” army are armed, equipped and trained in the latest Western European military fashion.

Galley(ottoman_medium_galley)Medium GalleyGalleys are propelled by both oars and sails, with cannons on firing platforms above the rowers’ heads.

72

Admiral's Flagship, 3rd Rate(3rd_rate_admiral)AdmiralThe third rate is a compromise between firepower and handling. A stable gun platform, it also makes a good flagship.

102

Admiral's Flagship, 1st Rate(1st_rate_admiral)AdmiralThe first rate is the largest type of “ship of the line of battle”, intended to be the command ships at the centre of any fleet.

102

First Rate Ship of the Line(1st_rate)1st RateThe first rate is the largest type of “ship of the line of battle”, intended to be the centre of any fleet. These are very expensive and powerful vessels.

56

Fourth Rate Ship of the Line(4th_rate)4th RateThe fourth rate is the smallest vessel styled a “ship of the line” (of battle), carrying as many as 60 guns.

84

Second Rate Ship of the Line(2nd_rate)2nd RateThe second rate is a three-deck “Battle Ship of the Line” carrying up to 98 cannons, a powerful unit in any fleet.

72

Third Rate Ship of the Line(3rd_rate)3rd RateThe third rate is an excellent compromise between firepower and handling qualities. A stable gun platform, it has more guns than many whole armies!

1.5

Dhow (Trade Ship)(dhow)DhowA dhow is a traditional Arab sailing vessel, rigged with a lateen sail. Although an ancient design, it is an efficient and handy craft, particularly for coastal work – and pirates!

15

Bomb Ketch(bomb_ketch)Bomb KetchThe “bomb” is a floating weapons platform, usually adapted from a small, two-masted ketch. The whole ship is constructed around a single large-calibre mortar.